This is a comprehensive hands-on course designed for the beginner to intermediate soldering and rework technician. It will instruct the student on protection of electronic circuitry from the hazards of ESD (Electrostatic Discharge), basic component identification, and workmanship standards. This course will teach the students basic skills in SMT (surface mount technology) installation and removal using state of the art workstations. 

The course is structured to be in accordance with IPC-A-610 rev D and IPC 7711. The student will become familiar with basic ESD concepts, minimizing ESD in the workplace, and some general ESD rules. The students will be introduced to some general IPC terms and definitions (product classifications, acceptance criteria, etc.) and will become familiar with selected common electronic terms. 

The class will familiarize themselves with the solder/desolder rework stations and become comfortable with soldering tip care and safety. The class will study the basics of soldering including the nature of fluxes, proper cleaning methodology, formation of intermetallics, solder melting points, etc. Lead free alloys characteristics are discussed and the differences and similarities explored.  The student will become familiar with the IPC component identification desk reference manuals and workmanship standards as they pertain to SMT technology. 

The class will be introduced to surface mount technology and be asked, after appropriate demonstrations, to construct a SMT board. Types of components are varied and include components ranging from 1206 chip components, SOT’s, SOIC’s PLCC’s to fine pitch gull wing devices. All students will be required to install some components using lead free solders.  Upon completion of all component types the students will remove the components using a variety of conductive and convective methodology. The goal is to remove all components without inducing damage to the board.

Upon successful completion of the course students will receive a Circuit Technology Certification good for a period of two years.